Former West Ham United goalkeeper David James has made a bold prediction about current Hammers shot-stopper Alphonse Areola, insisting the Frenchman has what it takes to become one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.
From the Sidelines to the Spotlight
Areola's season began under a cloud of uncertainty. New manager Graham Potter made the surprising decision to spend £20 million to sign Mads Hermansen from relegated Leicester City and immediately installed the new signing as his first-choice goalkeeper.
This move saw Areola, 32, relegated to the bench. However, the experiment was short-lived. After West Ham conceded a worrying 11 goals in their first four matches with Hermansen between the posts, Potter was forced to rethink his strategy. Areola was handed back the starting role and has held onto it firmly since.
James Backs Areola for Greatness
Speaking exclusively to London World via nva.org, James, who made 102 appearances for West Ham, expressed his admiration for Areola and his confusion over the initial team selection.
"I think Areola, I mean, he's a little bit older now at 32. I think my peak in performance was at 35, 36, 37 even," James revealed. "There's still time for him to become what I believe could be one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. I think he's got all the attributes."
James was not shocked by the club's decision to sign Hermansen for depth but was taken aback that he was started over Areola. He praised the French goalkeeper's recent performances, even in losing efforts, stating they have been "very good."
A Career of Fluctuating Fortunes
Areola's journey at the London Stadium has rarely been straightforward. He signed permanently from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported €12 million in June 2022 after a successful loan spell and has now made 108 appearances for the club.
Despite this, the number one jersey has never felt completely secure. Last season under Julen Lopetegui, Areola lost his place to veteran Lukasz Fabianski for a period between October and January. The club has also been linked with a sensational loan move for Barcelona's Marc-Andre ter Stegen, adding further speculation about the long-term security of his position.
James concluded with a note of optimism for the keeper, saying, "I just hope that Areola is getting what he needs to continue performing at the levels that he has been in recent weeks and to even surpass that. I think it is still achievable."
